Plan would let some NY 8th-graders skip math tests

NEW YORK | New York state has proposed letting eighth-graders skip the statewide math test if they take the algebra Regents test.

The Wall Street Journal reports that the state would have to get clearance from the U.S. Department of Education for the rules change. The department has given states until Nov. 22 to request permission to cut back on so-called "double testing."

The state Education Department will ask the Board of Regents to consider the proposal on Monday.

States are required to test students annually in English and math in grades three through eight.

New York students must take five Regents tests to graduate from high school.

Some take the algebra Regents in eighth grade and others in ninth grade.